There is nothing in this world that I care for more than my dog, Daisy. She is a five year old cockapoo, and is one of the most important things in my life. So for this reason, I should hate Michael Vick, who killed and tortured countless, innocent dogs in his dog-fighting ring, the Bad Newz Kennelz, right?
Nope. I love Michael Vick. He is one of the most exciting athletes in the history of all sports. There has never been a quarterback who has been able to engage, excite, and surprise every single person watching the game he is playing in, as Vick does. No matter what situation he is put in, he can find a way to win. On December 19th, 2010, the Eagles were down 31-10 in the fourth quarter. With 8 minutes left, Vick put the team on his back to win the game, 38-31. It was unbelievable...most of the city of Philadelphia had turned off their TV by halftime. The man is unreal, and this season was the peak of his career. Nobody can throw a football, and run like a madman nearly as successful as Vick does. He truly is one of the greatest athletes I have ever witnessed.
Now, you can argue that I am judging Vick based purely on his performance on the football field. This isn't true. I also think that he is the perfect example of a successful comeback story, and defines the appropriate use of the American legal system. When he was arrested for his atrocities a few years back, most people thought that Vick would never play football again. His life hit rock bottom, and he went to prison for almost two years, and also had a financial meltdown. Surprise, surprise, no other team but the Philadelphia Eagles signed Vick when he became eligible to play again, but benched him for some time, with Donovan McNabb as his mentor and Kevin Kolb ahead of him on the depth chart. Now, let's fast forward to this season. He had to step up when Kolb was injured, and ended up securing the starting spot because of this, and became a serious MVP contender. As a person, Vick has shown true regret for what he has done, and even goes on various animal rights campaigns to inner-city Philadelphia where dog fighting is prevalent. He has also settled his life down, is involved in various charities, and hopes to settle down with his fiancee and children. He even hopes to be allowed to own a dog one day for his daughter. He shows true development as a person, and true repentance for his past actions. I think that Michael Vick is one of the greatest success stories of our time, and is also one hell of a football player.
Sean,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your tribute to Michael Vick. Mentioning your love for your dog Daisy was a great way to connect personally to Vick's story. I love my dog Sandy also and of course Vick's behavior did not please me but when you pointed out how he is acting to redeem himself it made me consider changing my opinion regarding him as a person. Your right, Vick is an amazing athlete and I don't think his actions off the field should compromise his ability as a player. As an athlete who can produce results, no one can deny his status as an influential player in the sports industry.
Good job and nice writing!
I agree with Katharine- opening your blog post by mentioning your love for your dog was a great way to get the reader on your side before you make a controversial point. Really good writing, and you had great justification. Maybe Michael Vick isn't so bad after all...
ReplyDeleteGreat writing, especially the set-up in the introduction. I agree whole heatedly with what you said, when Vick went to prison we all wrote him off. Who would have thought he'd put all his will power into getting back to the top instead of succumbing to everyone's expectations and slipping quietly into obscurity. He's an awesome player - love watching him.
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